Role of Pipeline

Pipelines provide an efficient, reliable, inconspicuous platform for moving a multitude of useful products across long distances.

Did You Know

More than 350 million gallons of gasoline, diesel fuel, heating fuel and jet fuel - enough to meet about 50 percent of U.S. consumers' demand - move daily by pipelines from refineries to local distribution centers.

America's interstate pipelines transport more than 7.6 billion barrels of crude oil annually from the oilfields to refineries for processing. Crude oil is an important ingredient not only in fuel, but also in products ranging from plastics to pharmaceuticals to fertilizers that we use every day.

Pipelines move huge quantities of crude oil and refined products efficiently, dependably and at a low cost, making many petroleum-based products more affordable for U.S. consumers.

According to the Department of Transportation accident statistics, pipelines are the safest method of transporting petroleum products. They also have a lower spill rate per barrel of oil transported than trucks and barges.

In addition, by reducing the volume of crude oil and refined products that must be moved by truck or railway, pipelines make the roads and railways safer for travelers.

Almost 250,000 miles of petroleum pipelines crisscross the country and are located underneath many communities. Help us keep your community safe by observing conditions along pipeline routes.